Subject: Mixed metaphors

Mixed metaphors:

A metaphor is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable. A mixed metaphor is the use of two or more unrelated metaphors that are incongruous or illogical when combined. Here are some mixed metaphors we’ve seen and heard.

What goes around, stays in Vegas.

Once the toothpaste is out of the tube, it's too late to close the barn door.

There's been a lot of spilt milk under the bridge.

Does the Pope shit in the woods?

Signori has all the tricks up his book.

England football player

You have to walk before you can swim.

Is this a whole nother bucket of worms?

They’ve come out with all cylinders flying.

British football player & manager

From now on, I’m watching everything you do with a fine-tuned comb.

Our old car bought the dirt.

They’ve tasted the other side of the coin on so many occasions.

Irish football player & broadcaster

Up a tree without a paddle.

I can see the carrot at the end of the tunnel.

English football player

Don't bite the hand that lays the golden egg.

Loose lips sink like a rock.


This is up my wheelhouse.

I want to be sure we don't build ourselves a bag of worms.

She’s not the toughest cookie on the block.

You can beat a dead horse to water, but you can't make him drink.

It will be music to your wallet.

If England had scored in the first half, I think the young legs would have found younger hearts inside them.

English football player & manager